China Trade soup ladle, Fiddle Shell & Thread,

Kheechong, Canton circa 1825, length 13 1/2 inches, monogrammed "DR". Heavy and in excellent condition, with the classic "inset v" construction on both shells (front & back), bold shell drop (please see third photo). There is but one caveat here: someone has substantially removed the mark (ideogram - K.H.C. - monarch), so that it is only barely visible.